Yes, collecting sea glass in Malaysia is generally legal but subject to environmental and maritime regulations enforced by federal and state authorities. While no specific law bans sea glass collection outright, compliance with the Environmental Quality Act 1974, Fisheries Act 1985, and state-level coastal management policies is mandatory. The Department of Environment (DOE) and Department of Fisheries (DOF) monitor activities that may disrupt marine ecosystems or violate protected area boundaries. Recent 2026 amendments to the National Coastal Zone Management Policy emphasize stricter enforcement of unauthorized coastal resource extraction, including ornamental collection.
Key Regulations for Collecting Sea Glass in Malaysia
- Environmental Quality Act 1974 (EQA 1974): Requires permits for any activity that may alter marine habitats or remove natural materials from coastal zones. Unauthorized collection in protected areas (e.g., marine parks) constitutes an offense under Section 29, punishable by fines up to RM500,000 or imprisonment.
- Fisheries Act 1985: Prohibits the removal of marine organisms or geological materials from designated fishing zones without a permit from the Department of Fisheries. Sea glass, often derived from mollusk shells or coral fragments, may fall under “marine biological resources” if sourced from living organisms.
- State Coastal Management Enactments: Individual states (e.g., Sabah, Sarawak, Penang) impose additional restrictions. For instance, the Sabah Parks Enactment 1984 bans the collection of any natural material within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, while Penang’s State Parks Corporation enforces similar prohibitions in coastal reserves. Violations may result in compound fines or legal action.